Professional Sports Coaching UK

UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

LEVEL 4 UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE

Support Handbook
UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11
Three Central Defenders
Playing Out from the Back
Session Development No4
Switch Play
Primary Players
 O6 is pressed by X10 so switches
play to O5
 O7 drops into a deep position to
receive from O5 who is being
pressed by X9
 O7 Passes to O4 for options
Options
 O4 Pass forward or RWTB until
engaged then end product

Secondary Players
 O8 & O9 move to wide midfield
position to open the door for O4
 O11 Shows in the pocket (Zone 14)

Fringe Players
 O2 & O3 high supporting positions
 O5 & O6 close the door cover and
balance

Primary Coaching Points

 Quick switch of play across the
back 3 defenders including
midfield players
PSC UK

Session Plans for

Technique, Skill, SSG’s, Phases and 11v11 Sessions
(Over 90 Individual Session Plans)

With
Interactive TACBOARD(c) Presentations for Every Session
Plus Guidance & Notes

Written by
Jed Starkey UEFA ‘A’ Licence
Current FA Licenced Level 3 UEFA ‘B’ Tutor
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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

FA LEVEL 4 UEFA ‘A’

SESSION PLANS & GUIDANCE
Forward from: Jed Starkey UEFA ‘A’ & Current FA Level 3 Tutor

Thank you for buying this resource provided by a current UEFA ‘A’ Licence and FA
Licenced Tutor. I can assure you that the following handbook and CD(r) containing full
colour session plans, combined with the Interactive TACBOARD Presentations and
supporting information will definitely develop your knowledge of the coaching process
and delivery at Level 4 UEFA „A‟ Licence.

The aim of this resource is not designed to contradict what you have developed on any
FA course you may have attended or what any other tutor has taught you, but designed
to assist your development at club level or prepare you for a future „A‟ licence course
or refresher maybe.. The resource covers the principles of attack and defence with in
depth information and session plans to develop you knowledge on and off the pitch to
„A‟ Licence standard.

The session plans are comprehensive with information on Technique to Functions, to

SSG‟s on to Phases of Play and then a 11v11 game. The combination play for
examples has 8 variations and 18 slides of information. In addition there are also
individual functions, phases & 11v11s
There is also a BONUS section with 9 UEFA „B‟ Session Plans for those times where
you do not have all your players also Speed & Agility and Warm Up sessions

By using the information, TACBOARD(c) and session plans provided as a learning

tool, you will be able to develop your own ideas and future session plans. The plans
provided in this resources show start points, varied scenarios, progressions, player
movement, session developments, who, where and what to coach with suggested
coaching points and tips from a current FA Tutor. Please remember that the CD (R)
has a massive amount t of information on it so please give it time to load onto your
system

Enjoy the Resource

Jed Starkey - UEFA ‘A’ Licence & FA Level 3 Licenced Tutor

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

Information Page
How to use the Powerpoint Slides 4
Key Phrases at Level 4 UEFA „A‟ 5-8
Game Transition 9
Passing Priorities 10-11
Good Session planning at UEFA „A‟ Level 12
Consideration for Assessments 13
Start Points 14-16
Free Play 17
Who What and Where to Coach 18
Good Delivery Planning 19
Set Play Planning 20
Hydration for Sport 21-22
Bonus CD Content 23 (UEFA „B‟) Sessions

UEFA ‘A’ Session Plans 24 ONWARDS

Section No1 - UEFA ‘A’ Licence Set Play Session plans
Page 25-26 Attacking Corners (Variations)
Page 27-28 Defending Corners (Variations)
Page 29 Attacking Free Kicks (Variations)
Page 30 Defending Free Kicks (Variations)

Section No2 - UEFA ‘A’ Licence SSG to Phase to 11v11 Game Session plan
Page 31-32 Defending, Marking, Covering and Tracking

Section No3 - UEFA ‘A’ Licence Function to Phase to 11v11 Game Session plans
Page 33-35 Forward Runs with the Ball to Create and Exploit Space
Page 36-38 Combination Play in the Attacking Third
Page 39-41 Playing Out from the Defensive Third

Section No4 - UEFA ‘A’ Licence Phase of Play Session plans

Page 42 Playing Out form the Defensive Third
Page 43 Goalkeeping Support Play
Page 44 Back 4 Defenders Dealing with Direct Play
Page 45 GK and Defence on Being More Effective on Dealing with Crosses.

Section No5 - UEFA ‘A’ Licence Function Session plans

Page 46 Central Defenders Passing to Strikers
Page 47-48 Midfield Players Support Play and Passing Positively
Page 49 2 Central Defenders How To Defend in Central Areas

Section No6 - UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11v11 Game Session plans

Page 50-51 Runs Off the Ball, Overlapping & Diagonal
Page 52-54 Three Central Defenders Playing Out form the Back
Page 55-57 The Shadow Striker (Zone 14 player)
Page 58-59 Defending Ready to Counter Attack (On the CD)
Page 60-62 Attacks from Wide Areas (6 options)

Section No7 – Skills Section

Page 63 -64 Defending Set Plays
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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

TACBOARD(C) PRESENTATIONS

Each presentation is designed to provide interactive information for you to

assess and then use. You can move the players around to suit your session
as you see fit.

Each presentation shows, set up, player and pass movement, progressions
and who, what and where to coach with specific coaching information
on Primary, Secondary and Fringe players

Procedure for playing presentations;

1. Put the CD in the PC
2. Open PowerPoint Point Software
3. Click slide show
4. Click View Show
5. Let the show role

6. Slides will rotate every

time you press the down
arrow and will go
backwards on the up
arrow
7. You can stop the show at
any time and go
back/forward using your
up and down arrows at
any time.
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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

KEY PHRASES AT LEVEL 4 UEFA ‘A’

PRINCIPALS OF PLAY

Collective = A group of components/comments/information used to aid attack and

defence

Attacking

Dispersal – on winning possession obtain width and depth, stretch your opponents
and create, maintain and exploit space.

Support – ahead, alongside and behind the ball,

 angles,
 distance,
 timing, fundamentals key to possession
 inter change

Penetration – exploit space with good movement with and without the ball,
use of possession to an outcome

Flair – individual, be inventive, produce the unexpected, run, change of pace, first
touch, dribble, combination

Central Attacking Play

Central Approach Play – Players Movement – Successful teams keep the ball
moving. Barcelona completed 900 passes against Real, why??

 Forwards
 Positive attacking play
 Angles, distance, timing
 Body shape to Receive
 Feet, body-shape, awareness
 1st Touch forward – let the ball run
 Deceive as you receive
 Willingness to pass
 Move the play forward
 Pass forward and support
o Behind the defence
o Alongside the defence
o Into and through the defence
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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

Be a pass receiver

 Behind the defence

 Alongside the defence
 In front of the defence
 Ahead of the ball (locally)

Defending

When - does defending it commence, transition, handover of possession ( the

will and team desire to defend)

Where - does defending commence, any area of the pitch (game plan). First
aggressive trigger

How - does defending commence (areas and circumstances?).

Triggered by first defender
Ball surrendered
Circumstances of possession lost
Ball intercepted – we recover – urgency
Ball out of play – pressure – outnumbered - withdraw

What - is involved in defending

 Depth – no pressure on the ball reduce space behind to reduce opportunities

 Delay – especially when outnumbered allow team to reshape, reduce time and
space
 Deny – opponents space and time to develop play, protection of high priority
areas
 Compactness – achieved on a trigger at a given point to stop opponents
playing with their heads up, man to man – eliminate key players
 Concentration – a collective of players who can overload the ball
 Predictability – manoeuvre opponents into areas where play becomes
predictable, Channel or deflect attacking play, Deflection of opponents attack
into well defended or less important areas depending on circumstance
 Balance – must be achieved behind the ball to stop opponents’ penetrating,
covering spaces critical to your opponents

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

OTHER KEY PHRASES

Other key phrases that you could master which would impress any assessor, coach or player
may be;

Game Planning

1. Tactics/Game Plan
a. 4-4-2 4-1-4-1 formations for that specific game or your style
b. Drop deep and soak pressure in the first half and then attack in the second half
maybe
2. Strategy – How you wish to play over a season, may be a counter attack team
3. Game Organisation-
a. Every player knows what their job is on corners for and against
b. Who takes corners, free kicks and throw in‟s
c. Where the keeper will kick goal kicks to
4. Zonal – Marking or attacking through specific areas to create or deny attacking
opportunities
5. Patterns of Play – Planned and practiced variations on specific movement of players
and the ball at specific times and moments in the game. Players knowing what to do
when

In Attack

1. On the shoulder of the last defender, stood close to him but not offside
2. Off the shoulder (in line with him but not stood next to him maybe at an
advantageous position maybe see his shirt number ready to attack the space)
3. Across the defender (strong run with blocking arm to block the defenders recovery)
4. Attitude (to dribble, score, create space)
5. Prime Target Area ( the second 6 yard box where the keeper will hesitate to come
for crosses)
6. In the pocket – (Zone 14) the area where the striker drops off the defender towards
the ball maybe just in front of the defending edge of the box
7. End product – Shot, dribble or cross
8. Mavericks – Players who operate in the final third of the pitch with intelligent
movement who can create special situations, movement and execution of end
products
9. Pinning the Defender - Centre forward making sure the defender cannot get around
him, sometimes the back to goal striker
10.Play maker – The creative one
11.Play Breaker – The ball winner
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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

In Defence
1. Switch on (when play changes hands)
2. On the front foot (ready to intercept)
3. Cover and balance (for units behind the ball)
4. Check shoulders (for lateral cover and balance)
5. Tracking players (see the player see the ball – the defensive triangle)
6. Recovery runs (getting goal side for cover and balance)
7. Narrow (towards your own goal)
8. Attack the ball (heading)
9. Press the ball and force the attacking player to make a decision
10.Win it IF YOU CAN
11.Do not dive in
12.Do not give silly fouls away on the edge of our box

Pressure on the Ball

When to Press and When to drop??????

You can only effectively push out from defence if you have effective pressure on the ball.
If not the other team will play in behind you and exploit the space you are creating.

The Questions may be;

Q – On game transition can you win the ball immediately?

A – Only if secure and the whole team is active

Q - As a team can you engage the first aggressive trigger from the opposition?
A - Press as a team

Q - If only 1 players can engage

A - Drop and apply the principles of defence

Q – Defend the counter

A – Concede ground and apply the principles of defence

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
a.
GAME TRANSITION
The 3 Moments in any game which a good coach will consider
Next time you watch any game, do not follow the ball but watch what players/units/team do
when play changes from team to team and from attack to defence. If you understand these
three moments, you will be able to use terminology in the right context at the right time.

There are basically three moments which happen hundreds of times every game, try and get
your analytical coaching mind to consider;
1. What to do when you have the ball? (Create, maintain, exploit etc)
2. What to do when play changes hands? (Switch on Re shape,)
3. What to do when the opposition has the ball? (Press, drop, narrow delay, deny,
deflect, dissect, defend etc)
Technical & Skills Practices
At „A‟ Licence Level there will be sessions that purely focus on technique (The how to
sessions) and skill (Decision making when and where to). This may be completed in a
basics 30x30 box however you can always adapt your knowledge from UEFA „B‟ sessions
when you have new players or players who are younger and may struggle with the full „A‟
Licence 11v11 session.
Functional Practice
A practice situation from a snap shot (picture/scenario) from a live game you are planning
in the near future or have played recently and need to work on. The aim is to work with a
player or unit on their roles and responsibilities in a specific area of the pitch at certain
times both in attack and defence. This is where and how you teach the full backs for
example how to play full back in both attack and defence.
Small Sided Game (SSG 9v9)
This game is directional similar to level 3 however with more players. An SSG is designed
to develop unit and team understanding of the principles of attack & defence and the
transitional period mentioned above. Official game rules should apply such as offside to
develop timing of runs, and normal throw in‟s etc.
Phase of Play 8v8 9v8 9v7
This is where the coach really puts all the development aspects previously coached into
play with a practice designed to develop unit and team tactical understanding on two thirds
of a pitch and full width. This practice rehearses the players in full movement and unit
cohesion following the principles of play
11v11 Full Practice Game
Designed as a full practice session and rehearsal for a match situation employing players in
their natural position and practicing full tactical analysis and planning match strategy

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

PASSING PRIORITIES
Many teams work for hours on sessions that do not fully develop players understanding of
the variation of passes and the decision making of what type of pass to use when.

Following varying practices you will have coached the individual on his/her role in a
specific position, now coach the players on their decision making of where and when to
select a certain pass. The following list is a suggested guideline and is NOT THE LONG
BALL GAME!

Some schools of thought call this the priorities in passing or the passing checklist. If you
watch a premier League team when they re gain possession, where do they look to pass
first?

1. Into space to exploit the last defender –

a. When the opposition has pushed high up the field leaving a large space behind
the last defender (s)
b. Not a straight pass but a pass delivered with quality that does not go through to
the keeper. (Practiced in a skills or functional practice)
c. In wide areas to exploit the space left by the opposing full backs who may
have pushed on in their attack. (Counter attack weaknesses in their defence)

2. Into feet of the most forward player –

a. Normally the central striker who is pinning the centre half or dropping off into
the pocket to receive (zone 14) which is a favourite play of Wayne Rooney

3. Into wide areas

a. To exploit space and encourage 1v1 situations
b. This can be done earlier of course depending on the

4. Through Midfield or Holding up the play

a. To draw defenders out of position
b. The back to goal striker
c. To release players from holding positions
d. To attack in central areas and overload defenders

5. Switching Play
a. When you need to change the point if attack
b. When you have explored all impossibilities in that area
c. To exploit a weakness in the opposition

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

MATCH SCENARIOS TO CONSIDER

Have a think about the following scenarios/snap shots and put yourself in the players situation, what would
you do next (well that‟s what you coach him/her on)

Scenario 1 – The Right back has intercepted the ball in his/her middle third just outside his/her own 18
yard box?

Transition – You have re gained possession

What should happen next – Your team starts the sequence following the attacking principles of play and
„creates space as individuals to receive‟ and „units/team to create opportunities ahead of the ball‟

Players Decision making on Passing Priorities for this scenario;

1. Can he/she pass into the space behind the defenders so that striker or wingers can exploit the space
behind the last defenders? The selection of the pass is crucial dependant on what part of the pitch
he/she intends to execute the pass. The pass must eliminate the defenders and not go through to the
keeper.
2. Ball into feet of the striker dropping into the pocket (known as zone 14) so that support from
midfield may provide opportunities to create space by running at, or pass into space behind the last
defenders?
3. Ball wide to wingers when option 1 or 2 not on. Create space wide and opportunities to cross the
ball behind the line of last defenders.
4. Short pass to midfield so that the receiving player can progress onto the next phase higher up the
pitch.
5. Pass laterally (switch play) as there is no player open for the pass, retain possession
6. Pass backwards (switch play) as there are no other options, retain possession.

Note that the current Premier League teams set counter attacking as a priority with long accurate balls over
the top or down the side of the last defender. If the ball is not accurate or of high quality then it‟s the long
launch game we all hate.

Notes on Passing Priorities

1. If you coach that when play changes hands (as this is when the other team is at their weakest as they
have been on the attack) your players should look to pass forward as quickly as possible, this is a level
4 Session (Counter attacking) This session is coached extensively by Manchester United and Chelsea
academies and first team whom all adopt a quick counter attack when play changes hands. It will also
have a time restriction for players to regain possession and complete an attack.

2. The players should be coached in a variation of passes in a function such as;

a. Ball over the top with back spin into space behind the last defender
b. Low swerved pass into the strikers feet on the run in behind last defender
c. Low driven ball which travel very quickly to its intended target.
d. Short 10-15 yards passes with 1 and 2 touch of high quality.

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

GOOD SESSION PLANNING AT LEVEL 4 UEFA ‘A’

I have assessed many coaches at level 3 whom all forget that the planning stage is fundamental to success.
The plans you devise at your club are dependent on availability, age and ability of your players and will be
more relaxed where you can develop players and your own skills without pressure of time or assessment.
On your assessment you will probably be under more pressure and coach the cohort from your course.
Listed below are two variations that will assist you planning
Fail to Plan = Plan to Fail
AT YOUR CLUB
You should use the match analysis skills you have developed over the course of training at UEFA „A‟ level
to determine what sessions/practices you wish to plan. I would suggest that you do not make every session
an FA/UEFA session as this will bore the players with a “stop stand still” mentality. Let the game flow
and use guided discovery more to engage the players with their understanding in units in real match
situations.

Focus on weaknesses and then plan a strategy of sessions such as skill/functional sessions maybe to
practice units, then SSG‟s when numbers/attendance are low and Phases of Play or 11v11 with another age
group prior to your next match.

Let the players explore the snap shot scenarios/pictures you set them and see how they come up with
answers to the problem. If they cannot come up with an answer, then use you‟re coaching skills to step in
and show them.

ON YOUR ASSESSMENT
Remember that the Assessor will be marking you on a points system....
Your session planning is critical and sets the scene for your assessor. If the session plan looks scruffy,
lacks detail and content then this will give the Tutor/Assessor the impression that your planning and
preparation is poor, so may the immanent session?

Plan for your assessment as follows;

1. Mark the pitch as per your plan, get rid of all other cones and kit etc so that the area look
professional, you look professional too!!
2. Layout of your equipment for the session ready to play
3. Start with a good brief using tactics boards (maybe)
4. Get the players on the pitch and explain the area of play and the objectives for both teams
5. Get them playing ASAP and have some free play.
6. Your start point should develop from free play.
7. Set pictures/scenarios from match situations for players to develop
8. Stand in a GOOD COACHING POSITION where you can step in quickly!! You may be around
the play but not in the play as you will get in the way and not see all the pitch!
9. Use the coaching formulae to correct faults but NOT ALL COMMAND
10. Coach/effect all players Primary, Secondary and Fringe linking them THROUGH THE
THIRDS with understanding. But remember that you will have up to 11 players to deal with so be
quick, decisive and informative.
11. Plan to have at least 10 minutes FREE PLAY to let the game flow.

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

CONSIDERATIONS FOR ASSESSMENTS

As a UEFA „A‟ Licence and a FA Tutor, I see so many coaches deemed not competent on
their final assessment for the same reason. They cannot step in quickly enough and coach
in open play when mistakes happen for real both on and off the ball, technically and
tactically.

I suggest the following strategy;

1. Clearly explain the scenarios you are going to coach so that all players understand
the session and what they are going to achieve.

2. Use tactics boards, or discussion to confirm understanding

3. Reinforce the subject throughout the session to confirm player understanding!!!

4. Rehearse and explain your demos so that you can show effective pictures.

5. Do not watch the ball, observe the whole pitch as many coaches who fail just
concentrate on the area of the ball and forget cover and balance for example.

6. Recreate the picture as effectively as possible as unrealistic pictures will cause

unrealistic fault correction.

7. Engage all players and units linking players where possible where possible with
prime primary, secondary and fringe players being engaged in the picture you are
correcting.

8. DO NOT USE ALL COMMAND STYLE of coaching.

9. When you go to free play, be quick to step in!!!!!! Use a whistle if you are not a loud
coach as the fault may be 50 yards away on the other side of the pitch.

10. Use ‘Off side’ for realism

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

START POINTS Vs FREE PLAY

At levels 3 & 4 it essential that you get the start of the session right so that it builds
confidence in your session, organises the players in realistic start positions and then sets the
session off on the right pathway to success. The best way to start a practice is with FREE
PLAY as this is the most effective and realistic start which I am sure will get you to your
topic within a minute or so. Its real so try it!!

If you do have to use a start point it must be a realistic scenario from a real game situation
which sets the scene for your topic to be successful. Over the past 15 years assessing
coaches, I have observed so many start points either be unrealistic, in the wrong area of the
pitch, or most of all too complicated and therefore wastes time and causes problems for the
coach even before the session has fully started.

Free Play at the Start of the Session

At the start of a session let the players experience free play so that they can get a feel for
the game. I assure you that if you are observant and understand your SESSION AIMS
fully, your session will be able to start from free play, let it happen naturally!!

Structured Starts
The session plans and PowerPoint slides provide a variation of structured starts such as
„takes‟ in midfield for attacking third topics, interceptions which can be used any where,
and balls over hit into the keeper for sessions building from the back. You may of course
use a variation of starts which you have observed or like such as throw in‟s free kicks and
mistakes by players. These structured starts are real scenarios from game situations;

Regardless of the choice of start for your session you MUST consider the following;
1. The start is a controlled play which provides the ball to the team you wish to coach.
2. Keep the start as simplistic as possible to ensure success as some players cannot hit
difficult balls to start the game and of course the session will get off on the wrong
track, confusing players and frustrating you the coach!
3. Make the structured start point you have chosen as REALISTIC as possible;
a. Ensure it‟s in the part of the pitch where you want to start your session from.
b. The players MUST be in realistic positions and moving as realistic as possible
for that picture/scenario/snap shot from a real game which you have chosen for
your start point.
c. DO NOT stack teams and make one team that dominant that the session only
flows one way.
d. Yes of course put players in realistic positions that they would play in or have
ability in that area of the pitch however, ensure that if you working with a
wide player to deliver crosses then ensure the fill back can play realistically
and defend well. This will challenge the wide player more.

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START POINTS
Have a look at the following four stat points
They are realistic, quick and get into your topic ASAP

Midfield Interception
Gets the ball to the
team you are
coaching so that you
can get into your
topic asap.

This session is
RWTB so you can
see O2 is now in
possession and can
RWTB within 30
seconds of the start
of the session

Midfield Take

Used to move a
team to one side
of the pitch and
then switch play
wide to the wide
midfield player.

Used in this
session for
crossing &
finishing

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

Misplaced Pass

PHASE OF PLAY
Playing Out From the
Defending Third
Set up
Coaches Team O’s GK-4-3- 1 (9)
Xs = 3-3-2 (8)

Organisation
•The target player (T) can be
used for both teams to recycle
the ball and keep the game
flowing, the attacking team (O’s)
can score by passing to the target
player or RWTB in the gates

•Coaching position where you can

coach the defensive unit to start
with

The Start Point No1

•X5 try's to pass to X4 but over
hits the pass which goes through
Run of the Player to the keeper
•The game starts with the GK
Path of the ball
having the ball
•Or a variation on this start
PSC UK

Best used for sessions where you play out from the back so that the keeper on the team you
are coaching starts the session with the ball

Whatever start point you use, always ensure that players are in realistic
positions.

The best way, and of course the way I do it is as follows;

1. Show the teams what I want them to do, what formation etc on a Tactics
Board and of course laying the bibs out
2. Let the players to stand in those positions
3. I then put the ball down and set the scene asking players
“where they would realistically be if the ball was in play in this position”
4. Players will then normally move to realistic positions themselves

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FREE PLAY
Having conducted many Assessments and observed „A‟ Licence coaches practicing for
assessments, this sadly is the area that most coaches seem to fail on. Yes you can organise
a structured start, yes you can show match scenarios so that you can coach however when it
goes to „Free Play’ a high percentage of coaches stand back and think that the session is
done and do not diagnose or correct faults.

If you receive a low score on your assessment sheet I can guarantee you will receive it in
this area if you do not coach and correct faults in open play. You should ensure the
following;

1. When you plan the session, ensure you plan to have A HIGH PERCENTAGE OF
TIME in open/free play in all phases. This is where you show your assessor that you
can observe, identify, analyse and correct faults anywhere on the pitch with
individuals, units of players or the whole team.

2. Ensure that you stand in the area of the pitch (Coaching Position) which affords you
the immediate opportunity to step in and coach/correct faults.

3. Ensure that when you step in you may have to coach the „primary, secondary and
fringe players‟ to ensure success in that intervention.

I have also seen some coaches use free play instead of structured starts which of course is
very very effective however it is a hard skill to master. Give it a try in your practice at
your clubs and see what happens but just remember to;

1. Start in the area of the pitch you wish to use for your topic for example start your
free play with a throw in high in the attacking third if you wish to work on finishing.

2. Make sure that after 1 minute that you are „in to your topic‟ or you will have to revert
to a structured start point!

3. Have at lest 2 structured starts up your sleeve.

4. DO NOT keep going back to the same start point, it will become vary boring!!

5. Use semi start points or go live touches to avoid going all the way back to the
original start point as this will disengage players!!

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
6.
WHO, WHAT, WHERE & WHEN TO COACH
At level 4 UEFA „A‟ you should develop your ability to organise and set up a session
which engages players in a variation of sessions up to 11v11. Within those sessions you
will be assessed on your diagnosis and correction of faults not so much on structured
starts but more importantly in open play.
Remember that playing THROUGH THE THIRDS is a method of ensuring all units
understand their roles and responsibilities for each scenario.

On your level 3 Coaching Certificate (UEFA „B‟ Part 2) you will have been tutored on
diagnosis and correct faults using the coaching formulae.

At this level I would encourage you to continue to use that formulae but with emphasis
on three main areas as follows;

Primary players
 This may be the first player you are going to coach. He/she may be the player
on the ball who has made the mistake technically or poor/incorrect decision
making or the player off the ball who has not moved to assist the run of the
ball carrier for example.
 You should coach fine detail but more so decision making but not level 3
content UNLESS it is needed to ensure success.
 For example you may coach the striker how to drop into the pocket, to receive
and protect the ball until midfield support arrives.
 You may show the wide player which part of the prime target Area to deliver
into, what type of cross delivery and when.
 Or maybe how a wide player moves the full back before attacking his weaker
side with a dribble or cross etc.

Secondary Players
 May be players around the immediate area of the ball with their movement to
create space (dispersal - principles of attack)
 Maybe how the second striker (unit) moves off the shoulder to create space.
 Will encourage the unit of players and LINK players in that respective picture
you have created and now trying to coach/correct faults.
 May be other players who are standing still, which engages all players.

Fringe Players
 May be player behind the ball and not directly effecting play such as midfield
players on their Cover & Balance for example.
 Other players who are in the game but not directly affecting the play
Remember that you MUST affect all players in the session at some stage and
DON’T FORGET the GK who is a vital team member
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Good Delivery from Wider Areas

Encourages Great Finishing!
Analysis’s of Effective Crosses

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

Set Plays
Direct Coach Involvement
So many coaches fail to plan for the moments in a game they can directly influence such as set plays
corners and free kicks. You may not be able or have time to rehearse set plays in coaching sessions but
should have flair and involvement pre match so that you can directly manage the varying situations for free
kicks and corners.

Good planning pre game with descriptive tactics boards and set play sheets will enhance you as a
professional coach who knows what they are talking about

Good planning will provide players with eth “who’s doing what where and when” information that will
either produce a high percentage of goals from set plays or reduce the amount of goals you concede.

The set plays provided in this resource are my ideas of the set plays I like to use and of course are level 4
plans. Next game on TV watch what the start points are and how the players know exactly what they are
doing (most of the time)

Phrases to consider

Attacking Corners
 Early Organisation
 Start Point (Point A)
 Attack point (Point B)
 Anticipation area (for rebounds or secondary shots)
 Blocker (another player who blocks your marker for marking your run)
 Delivery point (Prime areas)

Defending Corners
 Early Organisation
 Zonal, Semi Zonal, Man for Man Marking (Your choice of tactic)
 Drop zones (second strike areas)

Attacking Free Kicks

 Early Organisation
 Quick play
 Inventiveness
 Accuracy
 Runners
 Deception and Movement
Defending Free Kicks
 Early Organisation
 Build a barrier
 Strength

Notice that they key phrase in all areas is Early Organisation

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

Hydration and High Energy Performance

A lot of information can be found quite easily on the subject of Nutrition, Hydration and
Sports performance. I lecture in that specific subject field and assure you that most coaches
do not even take the subject into consideration even at UEFA „A‟ Level. Ask yourself the
question when your players do not play at their optimum performance “when was the last
time they ate anything and when and what was their last fluid intake?”
Take time to educate yourself and then your players, you may not be able to manage what
they eat but you sure can manage what they drink at your sessions or matches! Consider the
following facts;
% Body Weight Lost as Sweat
2% = Impaired performance (This is normally after 60 minutes without replenishment or rehydration)
4% = Muscle output declines (Later on in games and tournaments where optimum performance is lost)
5% = Heat Exhaustion (High humidity or sessions in the sun where players are not used to that condition)
7% = Hallucinations (Problem areas where player ignore your instructions or don‟t seem to understand)
10% = Circulatory collapse and heat stroke

Reference: "The Maintenance of Fluid Balance during Exercise", International Journal of Sports Medicine,
vol. 15(3), pp. 122-125, 1994

So armed with this information you will now understand how much players sweat in
training and how much more in matches and of course in varying climates. You will have
to re evaluate the situation where you player is not playing to his/her optimum performance
levels and you think it‟s because they are being lazy or having a bad day, maybe it‟s your
fault for not managing the rehydration issue, maybe not?
Practices or Matches– Normally 60-90 minutes duration
Before–
Vital they players arrive hydrated as they may start immediately.
How can you manage this, well suggestion is that it‟s a club/team rule that every player has
a 1 litre water bottle (marked with their name) which they must bring to training every
session. Failing to do so will see them being kit man for that session?
Suggested Source of Fluid – Isotonic Drink/fluid
During -
Especially on hot days or intensive sessions, every player must re hydrate to replace fluid,
salt and energy sources so that the body is refuelled ready to go again. Frequent stops for
fluid is vital especially when young players are developing muscle growth
Suggested Source of Fluid – Isotonic Dink/fluid
After –
Taking time to ensure players re hydrate following practical sessions is extremely
important if you wish tom maintain hydration levels and optimum performance.
Suggested Source of Fluid – Hypertonic Fluid/drink
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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

Which drink is most suitable?

Isotonic - quickly replaces fluids lost by sweating and supplies a boost of carbohydrate.
This drink is the choice for most players. Glucose is the body's preferred source of energy
therefore it may be appropriate to consume Isotonic drinks where the carbohydrate source
is glucose in a concentration of 6% to 8% - e.g. High Five, SiS Go, Boots Isotonic,
Lucozade Sport.

Hypertonic - used to supplement daily carbohydrate intake normally after training or

matches to top up muscle glycogen stores. Tournaments or Extra Time, high levels of
energy are required and Hypertonic drinks can be taken during breaks to meet the energy
requirements. If used during exercise Hypertonic drinks need to be used in conjunction
with Isotonic drinks to replace fluids.

Want to make your own?

Isotonic - 200ml of orange squash (concentrated orange), 1 litre of water and a pinch of salt
(1g). Mix all the ingredients together and keep chilled

Hypertonic - 400ml of orange squash (concentrated orange), 1 litre of water and a pinch of
salt (1g). Mix all the ingredients together and keep chilled.

Final Comments

Please do not forget that water will quench thirst and rehydrate but it will not provide an
energy source to replenish glycogen used in exercise.

Sugary drinks such as fizzy pop and Red Bull will cause more thirst due to the high amount
sugar content.

Every player is different so let them choose their own source of hydration energy,

MANAGED BY YOU

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

Bonus Section on the CD!

UEFA ‘B’ Session Plans
UEFA ‘B’ Licence Function Session plans
No1 – Responsibilities of the Wide Player When Forces Inside
No2 – Attacking from Crosses
No3 – Attacking quickly in the final third

UEFA ‘B’ Licence SSG Session plans

No1 – Mark ready to intercept
No2 – Finishing
No3 – Switching Play

UEFA ‘B’ Licence Phase of Play Session plans

No1 – Combination play in the final third
No2 – Forward runs with the ball
No3 – Forward runs without the ball

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

SESSION PLANS
The following session plans are designed for Level 4 (UEFA „A‟) and will follow a
sequence on the principles of Attack and Defence mentioned prior to this section. The aim
is that you can take the plan and use it where necessary.
Key
O1 = You will always coach the O‟s
X2 = Will always be the defending team
T = Target player
Path of the ball (the pass)
Run of the player without the ball
Player dribbling with the ball

UEFA ‘A’ Licence Set Play Session plans

1. Attacking Corners
2. Defending Corners
3. attacking Free Kicks
4. Defending Free Kicks
UEFA ‘A’ Licence Function to Phase to 11v11 Game Session plans
1. Forward Runs with the Ball to Create and Exploit Space
2. Combination Play in the Attacking Third
3. Playing Out from the Defensive Third
UEFA ‘A’ Licence SSG to Phase to 11v11 Game Session plan
1. Defending, Marking, Covering and Tracking

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11v11 Game Session plans

1. Runs Off the Ball, Overlapping & Diagonal
2. Three central Defenders Playing Out form the Back
3. The Shadow Striker (Zone 14 player)
4. Defending Ready to Counter Attack
5. Attacks from Wide Areas (6 options)

UEFA ‘A’ Licence Phase of Play Session plans

1. Playing Out form the Defensive Third
2. Goalkeeping Support Play
3. Back 4 Defenders Dealing with Direct Play
4. GK and Defence on Being More Effective on Dealing with Crosses.
UEFA ‘A’ Licence Function Session plans
1. Central Defenders Passing to Strikers
2. Midfield Players Support Play and Passing Positively
3. 2 central Defenders How To Defend in Central Areas
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 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ Licence – Set Plays – Attacking Corners
Key Technical Organisation – Start Points, Attack Points and Secondary Areas
Aspects Movement to Create and Exploit Defenders
ATTACKING CORNER No1
Session Cluster 7 Up 1 Hold 2 Back
Content

No1 RESPONSIBILITIES
 O10 in front of the GK
 O9 on the 6 yard line
 O11 far post SESSION DEVELOPMENT
Cluster Start as a function with no
defenders
 O6 late run
Coach the following
 O4 far post run (tallest
players if possible)  Specific runs
 O5 front post run (quickest  Timing of movement
if possible)  Delivery areas
 O8 holds the edge for the  End product
drop down ball
Delivery from O7
Second 6 yard box with pace

ATTACKING CORNER No2

Front Post Move
To Open Far Post

No2 Cluster RESPONSIBILITIES

Front Post Set move where all player
move towards front post
Runs
 O7 & O10 combine to drag
player towards them
 O6 direct towards front post
area for low drive
 O4 far post run (tallest
players if possible)
 O5 far post run later than
the run of O4 (quickest if
possible)
 O8 holds the edge for the
drop down ball
Delivery from O7
Far post across the 6yd line

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
ATTACKING CORNER No1
Cluster 7 Up 1 Hold 2 Back

4 Runners
No 1

RESPONSIBILITIES
 O10 in front of the GK
 O9 starts towards the ball
then late reverse run SESSION
DEVELOPMENT
 O4, O5 & O6 attacks posts
with staggered runs Start as a function with no
defenders
Delivery from O7
Coach the following
 Second 6 yard box with
 Specific runs
pace out swinging
 Timing of movement
Trigger for the delivery
 Delivery areas
 Movement from O9  End product

ATTACKING CORNER No2

Overload the Far post

4 Runners
Overload the
Far Post

RESPONSIBILITIES
 O10 opens the far post
 O4 starts towards the ball as
the trigger for the delivery SESSION
DEVELOPMENT
 O5 & O6 attacks posts with
staggered runs Start as a function with no
defenders
 O4 and O9 late far post runs
Coach the following
Delivery from O7
 Specific runs
 High far post delivery
 Timing of movement
Trigger for the delivery  Delivery areas
 Movement from O4  End product

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ Licence – Set Plays – Defending Corners
Key Technical Organisation – Start Points, Who‟s marking Who
Aspects Marking Players, Zones,
DEFENDING CORNER No1
Session LONG CORNER 1 OUT

Content

No1
Basic Marking

RESPONSIBILITIES
 X3 Defend Near Post Zone
 X7 Defend near post zone
and screen O4
 X2 Defend back post zone
with X8 who also marks O11
 X4, X5 & X6 marking tight
 X9 & X10 marking drop
zone on the edge of the box

DEFENDING CORNER No2

SHORT CORNER

No2

Short Corner

RESPONSIBILITIES
Team Squeeze – Pressure on the Ball
 X9 & X7 deal with the ball
 X3 Defend Near Post Zone in the
role vacated by X7 THE THREAT
 X2 Covers far post  As the short corner has
 X8 drops to far post also tracks dragged 2 players out to
O11 defend, there will be an
 X4, X5 & X6 marking tight overload at the far post as
 X10 marking drop zone on the players re adjust
edge of the box
 Players must be aware that
OBJECTIVES
this is tactic to open the far
1. Team Re Shape
post area
2. Defend strong on the far post
 X7 & X9 must stop the
3. GK come and collect cross if possible

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
DEFENDING CORNER No3
No3 SHORT CORNER (Not so Deep)

Set and Deliver

from Wide
Areas

RESPONSIBILITIES
 X7 & 9 deal stop the cross
 X2 & X3 squeeze to cover O6
 X8 squeeze to cover far post
 X4, X5 & X6 marking tight
 X10 marking drop zone on
the edge of the box
OBJECTIVES
1. Team Re Shape
THE THREAT
2. Stop the cross
 Different angle of the cross
3. Push out to leave GK  X7 & X9 must stop the
free cross if possible

DEFENDING CORNER No 4
Defending Secondary Balls

Defending the
second ball
areas

RESPONSIBILITIES
 X5 heads the ball/cross clear wide if possible
 All central defenders push out with the
headed ball and mark strikers as they go
leaving the GK with more time to see the ball THE THREAT
and catch attackers offside
 Secondary shots on goal
 X6, X10 & X9 press the drop ball and stop the
secondary shot on goal

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA „A‟ Licence Attacking Free Kicks
Key Technical Organisation –Who‟s taking the kick, which target point
Aspects Movement to attack the ball
ATTACKING FREE KICK No1
Session Direct Strike or Far Post?
Content

No1

RESPONSIBILITIES
 O9 runs X5 away and
attacks far post area with O7
Cluster
 O5 & O10 across defenders
towards flight of the ball
 O11 far post run
 O4 holds the edge for the
drop down ball
Delivery from O6 or O8
Depending on what they see as
an option shot or cross

ATTACKING FREE KICK No2

Indirect – Inventive Movement

RESPONSIBILITIES
 O6 or O8 plays a quick pass
to O7 who steps over it
 Ball goes to O9 who plays
around the corner for the run
of O11 off the edge of the
wall
Primary Coaching Point
 Disguise from O7
 Good 1 touch passing
 Disguised movement
 End product

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA „A‟ Licence Defending Free Kicks
Key Technical Organisation –Who‟s marking Who – Walls and barriers
Aspects
DEFENDING FREE KICK No1
Main Wall & Second Wall

RESPONSIBILITIES
Main Wall
3 Defenders in this wide position
Second Wall
X10 to stand and eliminate the
back post shot/cross
Defenders
 X3,4,5, & X8 mark man for
man in the penalty area.
 X9 on the edge stopping the
shot from O4 and also
charges the short pass

DEFENDING FREE KICK No2

Central Areas

RESPONSIBILITIES
Main Wall
4 Defenders in this central
position
Defenders
 X3,4,5, & X10 mark man for
man in the penalty area.
 X9 charger
 X2 tracks O11

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA „A‟ Licence - SSG to Phase to 11v11
Defending Marking & Covering
Key Aspects Game Transition, Team Re Shape, Awareness, Decision Making
UEFA ‘A LICENCE UEFA ‘A LICENCE
Run of the Player 9v9 SSG to Phase to 11v11 Run of the Player 9v9 SSG to Phase to 11v11
Defending Marking & Defending Marking &
Path of the ball Covering Path of the ball Covering
9v9 SSG Organisation SSG Scenario No1 –
Set Up Transition, Switch on
 Pitch 70x50 Minimum  All players switch on to change of
 9v9 with GK possession and adopt defensive
 3-3-2 Formation or your choice posture.
 Box marked with cones if desired  Os (Coaches team) cannot put
pressure on the ball
Start Point No1 – Misplaced Pass  Players drop and narrow and
attempt to delay the attack
 O6 hits a pass towards O9 but Coach the Following
it goes through to the GK Primary Players
 O11 drops and narrows to
Transition engage X2 and delay the attack
 Xs team now in possession with  O6 slides & drops to support
the GK O11 and provide cover and
 GK throws the ball to X2 who balance
has the ball right side Secondary Players
 O2 marks X9 on his outside
Point of Focus shoulders to take away the
 Transition – switch on channel pass from X2
 O4 Drops and narrow to mark
X10
 O3 tracks the run of X11
Fringe Players
PSC UK • GK communication PSC UK
• O10 may be able to help

UEFA ‘A LICENCE UEFA ‘A LICENCE

Run of the Player 9v9 SSG to Phase to 11v11 Run of the Player 9v9 SSG to Phase to 11v11
Defending Marking & Defending Marking &
Path of the ball Covering Path of the ball Covering
SSG Scenario No1 –
Transition, Switch on SSG Scenario No2 –
 All players switch on to change of Transition, Switch on
possession and adopt defensive  The GK initiates the attack with a
posture. long throw/kick to X11
 Os (Coaches team) cannot put
pressure on the ball Coach the Following
 Players drop and narrow and Primary Players
attempt to delay the attack  O3 presses the ball and engages
Coach the Following X11 and delay the attack
Primary Players showing the line
 O11 drops and narrows to  O6 makes a recovery run to
engage X2 and delay the attack support O3 and provide cover
 O6 slides & drops to support and balance
O11 and provide cover and  O4 marks outside shoulder of
balance X10 to take the channel run away
Secondary Players Secondary Players
 O2 marks X9 on his outside  O2 drops and narrows to provide
shoulders to take away the cover and balance to O4 and O3
channel pass from X2  O11 Drops and narrow to mark
 O4 Drops and narrow to mark provide cover on X9 and support
X10 O2
 O3 tracks the run of X11 Fringe Players
Fringe Players • GK communication
• GK communication • O9 & O7 may be able to help
PSC UK PSC UK
• O10 may be able to help

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

UEFA ‘A LICENCE
Run of the Player 9v9 SSG to Phase to 11v11
Defending Marking &
Path of the ball Covering
11v11 Scenario No1 –
Defend the Quick Counter Attack

Coach the Following

Primary Players
 O3 puts immediate pressure on
the ball and delays the attack
 O8 slides & drops to support O3
and provide cover and balance in
front of central defenders
 O6 holds / tracks the run of X8
 O4 marks inside shoulder of X9
 O5 holds central position cover
and balance

Secondary Players
 O2 drops/narrows & tracks X11
 O7 recovers to assist
 GK communication

Key Coaching Point

Dropping to secondary positions
ready to mark and intercept is
PSC UK
key

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA „A‟ Licence - Function to Phase to 11v11
Forward Runs Off the Ball to Create & Exploit Space
Key Aspects Game Transition, Dispersal, Creative Movement, Intelligent Passing
UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE
Function to Phase to 11v11 Function to Phase to 11v11
FORWARD RUNS WITHOUT THE FORWARD RUNS WITHOUT THE
BALL TO EXPLOIT SPACE BALL TO EXPLOIT SPACE

Function No 1- Set up Function Scenario No1 –

Defending X’s= GK 3-3 -1(8) Early ball Exploiting Space
Attacking O’s = 3-4-2 (9) behind defenders

Organisation Primary Players

 The target player (T) can be  O10 makes a move away to
used for both teams to open the channel for O9
recycle the ball and keep the  O9 makes a run in behind
game flowing, the attacking X5 across X4
team (X’s) can score by  O2 passes into space for the
passing to the target player run of O9
or RWTB into the target
zones Secondary Players
 Coaching position where you  O10 then spins in behind X4
can coach the attacking unit  O7 supporting run wide in
behind X3
The Start Point No1  O6 supporting run
Interception
X’s in possession on the attack Fringe Players
with X8 passing to X11 but  O8 holding with cover &
intercepted by 02 balance supported by 02, O5
PSC UK PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE

Function to Phase to 11v11
FORWARD RUNS WITHOUT THE
BALL TO EXPLOIT SPACE

Function Scenario No2 –

Early ball Exploiting Space
Through Midfield

Primary Players
 O9 & O10 split X4 & X5
 O10 shows at the edge of the
box to open the channel and pins
X5 to receive the pass
 O6 makes a blind side run from
midfield
 Ball passed through O7 to O10
and then onto the run of O6
Secondary Players
 O10 then spins in behind X5
 O9 in behind X4
 O7 supporting run in behind X3

Fringe Players
 O8 holding with cover & balance
supported by 02, O5

PSC UK

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE
Function to Phase to 11v11
FORWARD RUNS WITHOUT THE
BALL TO EXPLOIT SPACE

Phase of Play - Set up

Defending X’s= GK 4-4 -1(10)
Attacking O’s = 3-4-2 (9)

Phase of Play - Organisation

 The target player (T) can be
used for both teams to
recycle the ball and keep the
game flowing, the attacking
team (X’s) can score by
passing to the target player
or RWTB into the target
zones
 Coaching position where you
can coach the attacking unit

The Start Point No1

Interception
X’s in possession on the attack
with X6 passing to X11 but
intercepted by 02
PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE

Function to Phase to 11v11
FORWARD RUNS WITHOUT THE
BALL TO EXPLOIT SPACE

Phase Scenario No1 –

Early ball Exploiting Space
behind defenders

Primary Players
 O10 drops into the pocket
(zone 14) to show for O2
 O9 makes a run in behind
X5 across X4
 O2 passes into space for the
run of O9

Secondary Players
 O10 then spins in behind X4
 O11, O8 & O7 supporting
runs

Fringe Players
 O6 holding with cover &
balance supported by 02, O3
& O4
PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE

Function to Phase to 11v11
FORWARD RUNS WITHOUT THE
BALL TO EXPLOIT SPACE

Phase Scenario No2 –

Exploiting Space behind full
backs

Coach the Following

Primary Players
 How O11 drives inside to
move X2 then drives outside
to exploit the space and
receive the pass from O6

Secondary Players
 Striker movement O9 & O10
off the shoulder of defenders
with maverick and good
movement to create space

Fringe Players
• O6 & O7 supporting runs
• O2,3 & O4 holding with
cover & balance PSC UK

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE
Function to Phase to 11v11
FORWARD RUNS WITHOUT THE
BALL TO EXPLOIT SPACE

11v11 Organisation
Os 4-4-2 (Coaches Team)
Xs 4-4-2 (Managed Team)

Start Point No1

Catch & Counter

• Xs (reds) on the attack

• Os (yellows) Narrow &
Compact
• X7 Pressed by O3 to pass
• Over hits the pass towards
X9 with the ball going
through to the keeper

• Yellow GK now on the ball

Transition
 Os now have the ball
 Dispersal (create and exploit
space)
PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE

Function to Phase to 11v11
FORWARD RUNS WITHOUT THE
BALL TO EXPLOIT SPACE
1v11 Session Development No1
Receive Hold & Link Play Wide
Primary Players
 GK moves to release point on
the edge of the penalty area
 O9 stays high but O10 drops
into the Pocket to receive & hold
Secondary Players
O11 & O7 move to high positions
on the shoulder of the last defenders
Fringe Players
 O6 & O8 supporting positions
 Back 4 defenders move out and
support behind the ball
Options for O10
1. Pass forward to feet or space
2. RWTB until engaged then end
product

Primary Coaching Points

 Release from GK
 Movement of O10
 Receiving skills O10
 Movement of attackers to exploit
space with end product
PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE

Function to Phase to 11v11
FORWARD RUNS WITHOUT THE
BALL TO EXPLOIT SPACE
Session Development No2
Central Option closed
Primary Players
• O2 creates space to receive
• O8 opens the window for O10
• O9 stays high but O10 drops
into the Pocket to receive
Secondary Players
O11 & O7 move to high positions
on the shoulder of the last defenders
Fringe Players
• O6 moves to advanced
supporting position to support
strikers
• Back 4 defenders move out and
support behind the ball
Options for O10
1. Pass forward to feet or space
2. RWTB until engaged then end
product
Primary Coaching Points
 Creating space of O2
 Movement of O10
 Receiving skills O10
 Movement of attackers to exploit
space with end product PSC UK

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 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA „A‟ Licence - Function to Phase to 11v11
Combination Play in the Attacking Third
Key Aspects Game Transition, Dispersal, Creative Movement, Intelligent Passing
UEFA ‘A’ Licence UEFA ‘A’ Licence
Functional to Phase to 11v11 Functional to Phase to 11v11
Combination Play Combination Play
Function Session
Combination Play No1
Development No 1
in Central Areas Combine early to Exploit Space
in Behind
Function Organisation
Primary Players
Os 1-2-2 (Coaches Team)  O10 and O9 create space off the
Xs GK 2-2-1(Managed Team) shoulder and in behind exploiting
T = Target Player space behind X4 & X5
 Pass from O5 into space for O10
Scenario Secondary Players
Reds are moving out of O6 & O8 move to staggered midfield
defence with the ball positions in support

Fringe Players
Start Point No1 O5 cover and balance
X8 tries to pass to X9 but
intercepted by O5 Options
 Strikers movement to exploit space

Transition Primary Coaching Point

 O5 now has the ball  Quick movement to receive the
pass form O5
pressed by X9  Timing of the run critical
 Dispersal  End product
PSC UK PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Functional to Phase to 11v11 Functional to Phase to 11v11
Combination Play Combination Play

Function Session Development No2 Function Session Development No3

Combine on the Edge of the Box Combine on the Edge of the Box
Midfield Support
Option No1 – Round the Corner
Primary Players Primary Players
 O9 receives a ball from O5  O9 receives a ball from O5
 O9 plays around the corner to O10  O9 holds and pins X5
 O10 drives across X4 to score  O9 then passes to O6 on the
driving run from deep position
Option No2 Give and Go  O6 drives across X8 to support
Primary Players and receive the pass from O9
 O9 receives a ball from O5 and
plays around the corner to O10 Secondary Players
 O9 then spins in behind X5 for the O8 moves to holding position
return pass from O10
Primary Coaching Points
Secondary Players  Quick and decisive passing
 O8 support from midfield  Receiving and holding skill of
 O6 holding position strikers
 Runs from deep to combine with
Primary Coaching Point strikers
 Quick and decisive movement  Movement off the ball
from strikers to exploit space  Timing of the runs critical
 Inventive passing  End product
 Timing of the runs critical
 End product
PSC UK PSC UK

36
Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
UEFA ‘A’ Licence
Functional to Phase to 11v11
Combination Play

Phase of Play Session

Development No1

Start Point
• Yellows 9 outfield players
• Reds = GK + 9 outfield players
• Free play or structured start point
of over hit shot towards X10 but
the ball is intercepted by O5
Primary Players
 O5 passes first time to O10 who
combines with O8
 Movement of O9, O7 & O11 to
exploit space behind defenders
 Passing options from O8

Secondary Players
 O9 spins in behind X4
 O7 drives wide
 O6 Holding role
Primary Coaching Points
 Quick and decisive passing
 Movement of O10 to OPEN THE
DOOR for O8
 Timing of the runs critical
 End product
PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Functional to Phase to 11v11
Combination Play

11v11 Organisation
Os 4-4-2 (Coaches Team)
Xs 4-4-2 Defending

Start Point No1

• Xs (reds) on the attack
• Os (yellows) Narrow &
Compact
• X8 Pressed by O6 forcing
wide
• Ball passed to X11
• Intercepted by O2

• O2 now on the ball

Transition
Os now have the ball
Dispersal of Os
Switch on

PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Functional to Phase to 11v11
Combination Play
Session Development No 1
2v1 Overlap Vs X3

Primary Players
 O2 and O7 combine to
overload X3 (2v1) with an
overlapping run
 O7 takes X3 on a run inside
creating space for O2
Secondary Players
 O10 offers support and pins
X5 to open the space
 O9 stays high on the shoulder
then completes a cross over
with O10
Fringe Players
 O8 support from midfield
 O6 holding role
 Defenders move out & support
Primary Coaching Point
1. Timing of the overlapping run
to overload X3 and attack the
vacant space
2. End product PSC UK

37
Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
UEFA ‘A’ Licence
Functional to Phase to 11v11
Combination Play
Session Development No 2
Wide Player Shown Inside by X3

Situation
X3 shuts off the line from the
overlapping run
Primary Players
 O7 receives from O2 with O2
supporting him
 O7 drives inside into the
space between X3 and X5
 O10 pins X5 until O7 makes
the run towards him
Secondary Players
 O9 stays high on the shoulder
then completes a cross over
with O10
Fringe Players
 O8 support from midfield
 O6 holding role
 Defenders move out & support
Primary Coaching Point
1. The drive inside from O7
2. End product PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Functional to Phase to 11v11
Combination Play
Session Development No 3
Combination Play (SIDS)

Situation
O7 on the ball wide
Primary Players
 O7 passes to X10 who is
pinning X5
 O10 disguises a step over
and lets the ball run to O9 this
is called a ‘SID’
 O10 then spins off behind X5
 O9 plays a 1st time ball
behind X5 for the run of X10
 O9 then spins in behind X4
Secondary Players
 O11 attack far post
 O8 supporting run
Fringe Players
 O6 holding role
 Defenders move out & support
Primary Coaching Point
1. The disguised step over
2. End product PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Functional to Phase to 11v11
Combination Play

Session Development No4

Switch Play to Move Defence

Situation
O7 on the ball wide cant go
forward
Primary Players
 O7 passes to X6 who has
dropped off his marker X8
 O11 creates space wide
ready to receive the pass and
attack X2
Secondary Players
 O10 drives to front post area
between defenders and
across X5 with strong run
 O9 re shapes to far post run
 O8 late supporting run
Fringe Players
 O6 holding role
 Defenders move out & support
Primary Coaching Point
1. The quick switch of play
2. End product PSC UK

38
 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA „A‟ Licence - Function to Phase to 11v11
Playing Out From the Defending Third
Key Aspects Game Transition, Dispersal, Creative Movement, Intelligent Passing
UEFA ‘A’ Licence UEFA ‘A’ Licence
Functional to Phase to 11v11 Functional to Phase to 11v11
Central Defenders Playing out from Central Defenders Playing out from
the Defending Third the Defending Third
Function Session Development No 1
Function Organisation Cross Over with Pass into space
behind last defender
Os 2-2-2 (Coaches Team)
Primary Players
Xs GK- 2-2-1 (Managed Team)  O9 & O10 complete a cross over
with O10 exploiting space behind
Start Point No1 X5
 Yellow GK passes to O4  Pass from O5 into space for O10
 O4 presses by X9
Secondary Players
 O4 passes back to GK who
 O7 & O8 move to staggered
then releases O5 midfield positions in support

Transition Fringe Players

 O5 now have the ball  O4 and GK cover and balance
 Dispersal
Options
 GK moves to the edge of the box
and releases to O5 or O4 in space
 Work variations on passing to
strikers
Primary Coaching Point
Quick movement to receive the pass
form the GK and execute a quality
pass to the strikers run.
PSC UK PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Functional to Phase to 11v11
Central Defenders Playing out from
the Defending Third

Function Session Development No 2

Drag and Drop

Primary Players
 O9 & O10 complete a cross over
with O10 exploiting space behind
X5
 Pass from O5 into space for O10

Secondary Players
 O7 & O8 move to staggered
midfield positions in support

Fringe Players
 O4 and GK cover and balance

Options
 GK moves to the edge of the box
and releases to O5 or O4 an
space

Primary Coaching Point

Quick movement to receive the pass
form the GK and execute a quality
pass to the strikers run.
PSC UK

39
Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
UEFA ‘A’ Licence
Functional to Phase to 11v11
Central Defenders Playing out from
the Defending Third

Phase of Play Session

Development No1

Start Point
 Yellows GK + 9 outfield players
 Reds = 9 outfield players and ‘T’
 Free play or structured start point
of over hit shot towards X9 but the
ball goes through to the yellow GK

Primary Coaching Points

1. Transition, play changed hands

2. Yellows quick to move to attacking

options and create space ready to
receive the ball

3. Quick movement to receive the

pass form the GK

PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Functional to Phase to 11v11
Central Defenders Playing out from
the Defending Third

Phase of Play Session

Development No2

Primary Coaching Points

1. Movement practiced in the
previous Function stages of the
session

2. 3 Options from the GK following

the passing priorities
1. Ball into space for O10
2. Ball to the feet of O9
3. Ball to O5 on the edge of the
box

Fine Detail to Coach

 Dispersal on transition
 High start position of the GK
 O5 Movement to receive on the
edge of the box
 Movement of O10 to loose X5
 Support
 Cover and balance

PSC UK

40
Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Functional to Phase to 11v11
Central Defenders Playing out from
the Defending Third

Phase of Play Session

Development No3

Primary Coaching Points

1. O5 Movement practiced in the
previous Function stages of the
session who RWTB until engaged
by X11 or X8

2. 3 Options from O5 following the

passing priorities
1. Ball into space for O10
2. Ball to the feet of O9
3. Switch play for the run of O7

Fine Detail to coach

 Dispersal of the whole team
 Movement ahead of the ball from
O10 and O9
 Travel with the ball from O5
 Support play from O8 & O7
 Cover and balance behind the ball
 End product

PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Functional to Phase to 11v11
Central Defenders Playing out from
the Defending Third

11v11
Ball with the GK

Primary Coaching Points

1. Team Movement practiced in the
previous Function and Phase
stages of the session to create
options

2. GK initiates the attack from the

edge of his own 18 yard area

Fine Detail to coach (Build the

Picture and link units)
 Dispersal of the whole team
 Movement ahead of the ball from
O10 and O9
 Decision making from O4
 Support play from O8 & O8
 Cover and balance behind the ball
 End product

PSC UK

41
 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA „A‟ Licence - Phase of Play
Playing Out From the Defending Third
Key Aspects Game Transition, Dispersal, Creative Movement, Intelligent Passing
UEFA ‘A’Licence UEFA ‘A’Licence
Phase of Play Phase of Play
Playing Out From the Playing Out From the
Defending Third Defending Third
Set up
Coaches Team O’s GK-4-3-2 (10) Scenario No1 – GK to F/B
Xs = 3-4-2 (9)
 When the GK has the ball, the whole
team creates space ready to receive
Organisation high and wide
The target player (T) can be used for
 O2 on the ball pressed by X9& X4
both teams to recycle the ball and
keep the game flowing, the attacking Coach the Following
team (O’s) can score by passing to Primary Players
the target player or RWTB in the
 O2 Creates space to receive
gates
 O2 has 4 options now, he can pass to
Coaching position where you can the run of O9 behind X2
coach the defensive unit to start with  Pass to O10 in the pocket
 Pass to O7 wide right
The Start Point No1
 X4 try's to pass to X9 but over  Pass to O6 switching play
hits the pass which goes through Secondary Players
to the keeper  O6 & O8 supports in midfield
Run of the Player  The game starts with the GK Run of the Player
having the ball Fringe Players
Path of the ball Path of the ball
 Or a variation on this start GK to communicate and squeeze the play
PSC UK
forward PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’Licence UEFA ‘A’Licence

Phase of Play Phase of Play
Playing Out From the Playing Out From the
Defending Third Defending Third
Scenario No2 – GK to CH
 When the GK has the ball, the whole Scenario No3 – Switching Play
team creates space ready to receive
high and wide  O2 on the ball pressed by X9
 O5 on the ball pressed by X8 Coach the Following
Coach the Following Primary Players
Primary Players  O5 O4 & O3 drop off to create
 O5 RWTB until engaged by X4 space for the switch of play
 O5 now has 3 options Secondary Players
 Pass to O10 in the pocket  O8 supports in midfield
 Pass to O7 wide right
 O6 holding position
 Pass to O8 switching play
Fringe Players
Secondary Players
O9 & O10 create intelligent movement
 O6 supports in midfield (Holding)
ahead of the ball as options for
Run of the Player Fringe Players
Run of the Player outlets after the switch of play.
Path of the ball O2 & O3 push high and wide
Path of the ball
O4 narrows to support the run of O5
PSC UK
PSC UK

42
 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

Session Title UEFA „A‟ Licence - Phase of Play GK Support Play

Key Aspects Game Transition, Decision Making, Communication, Distribution
UEFA ‘A’ PHASE OF PLAY UEFA ‘A’ PHASE OF PLAY
GOALKEEPING GOALKEEPING
Support Play Support Play
Set up Scenario No1- Switch of Play
Coaches Team O’s GK-4-3-1 (9)  X2 in possession engaged by O5.
Xs = 3-3-2 (8)  X2 switches play to X5 to exploit
space behind O4
Organisation  X’s now on a fast counter attack
The target player (T) can be used for
both teams to recycle the ball and Primary Coaching Points
keep the game flowing, the 1. Start position of the GK on the
attacking team (O’s) can score by end of the ‘D’
passing to the target player. 2. Communication with the whole
team to Press’ and switch on
Coaching position where you can 3. O4 to make a recovery run
coach the defensive unit 4. Communication with O3 & O2 to
slide, narrow and track X7 & X8
The Start Point No1
 O’s in possession moving
forward into the attacking 1/3
 O5 try's to pass to O6 but
intercepted by X2
Run of the Player  The game starts with X2 having Run of the Player
the ball, change of possession
Path of the ball  Or a variation on this start Path of the ball
PSC UK PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ PHASE OF PLAY UEFA ‘A’ PHASE OF PLAY

GOALKEEPING GOALKEEPING
Support Play Support Play

A moment in a game
Scenario No2- Cross from Wide
• X5 in possession engaged by O4.
designed to develop the
• X’s now ready to cross the ball team understanding of how
to play out from the back
Primary Coaching Points
1. New position ready to intercept the Many coaches spend a vast How to provide support
cross percentage of their time coaching from behind the play
2. Communication with O3 & O2 to mark
attack & defence but fail to work
X7 & X8
3. Communication with O1 to tack the run with their GK as they may not Start positions and
of X3 have the confidence or communication with the
back 4 defenders.
4. DECISION making to come for the knowledge.
cross or not
How to coach the team on
primary, secondary and
This session builds confidence fringe players engaging all
and the roles and responsibilities players in the unit
of the GK in support play
Run of the Player Remember
Run that a PoP is just a
of the Player
Functional Practice with extra
Path of the ball Path of and
the ball
players a wider/longer pitch
PSC UK
PSC UK

43
 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ Phase of Play - GK & Defenders Dealing With Direct Play
Key Aspects Game Transition, Decision Making, Communication, Defending Principles
UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE
Phase of Play
Dealing With Direct Play

A Practice designed to
coach a back 4 how to
deal with long balls in
behind them (The Long
Ball Game or Direct
Play)

Set Up
 2/ 3 of a pitch

Coaches team
 Os (yellows)
 10 players GK-4-4-1

Managed Team
 Xs (Reds)
 8 players 3-3-2
 AR = Asst Ref
Start Point No1 – Reds Drop to Receive
 X7 Pressed by O11 passes back to X2 Key
 Xs push forwards towards half way line Ball Travel
 Objective – Reds defend and get the ball to O9 to score Player Travel

UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE

Phase of Play
Dealing With Direct Play

Scenario No1
Ball played 1st time by
X2 pressed by O9

Primary Players
 O4 & O5 drop and
narrow on the trigger
from X2 and mark
X10 and X9
 GK to make decision
to take the ball ?

Secondary Players
 O2 & O3 drop and
narrow to support

Fringe Players
 O6 tracks X8
 O8 tracks X6
Primary Coaching Points
Key
1. Players react to pressure on the ball and the trigger by X2
Ball Travel
2. O4 & O5 track and mark strikers runs Player Travel
3. Timing and decision making – defend –hold –offside –GK deal
UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE
Phase of Play
Dealing With Direct Play

Scenario No2
Lateral Movement ball
in behind O3

Primary Players
 O5 drops to deal with
the pass from X3 to
X10 in the channel
 X2 drops and narrows
to cover O5
 O4 slides to cover
and tracks X8

Secondary Players
 O3 drops and narrows
to support O4

Fringe Players
 O7 tracks X6
 O8 tracks X8
Primary Coaching Points
1. Players react to pressure on the ball and the trigger by X3 Key
2. O5 deal with the ball if he can defend it Ball Travel
3. Timing and decision making – defend –hold –offside Player Travel

44
 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ Phase of Play - GK & Defenders Dealing Crosses
Key Aspects Game Transition, Decision Making, Organisation, Defending Principles
UEFA ‘A’ Licence
Phase of Play
GK & Defenders Dealing With
Crosses

Phase Organisation
Os GK 4-3-1 (9) (Coaches Team)

Xs 3-4-2 (Managed Team)

Start Point No1

 Os (yellows) pushing out of
defence in possession
 O6 passes to O11
 Intercepted by X2

Transition
 X2 now has the ball
 Dispersal

PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Phase of Play
GK & Defenders Dealing With
Crosses

Phase Session Development No 1

Early Ball in Behind

Primary Players
 GK in a high starting position
maybe to intercept the ball
 X3 press the ball stop the cross

Secondary Players
(Pressure on the ball)
 O5 & O4 drop and narrow ready
for the cross- Defend it
 O2 drop to cover far post tracks
X11

Fringe Players
 O6 assist O3
 O8 screen in front of defenders

Primary Coaching Point

Quick movement to RE SHAPE on
transition ready to mark to intercept
and then deal with any crosses that me
be delivered from wide areas.
Strong defending!!
PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Phase of Play
GK & Defenders Dealing With
Crosses

Phase Session Development No 2

Low drive to the near post

Primary Players
 GK in a strong position ready to
come and catch the ball
 X3 press the ball stop the cross

Secondary Players
(Pressure on the ball)
 O5 & O4 drop and narrow ready
for the cross- Defend it
 O2 drop to cover far post tracks
X11

Fringe Players
 O6 assist O3
 O8 screen in front of defenders

Primary Coaching Point

Quick movement to RE SHAPE on
transition ready to mark to intercept
and then deal with any crosses that me
be delivered from wide areas.
Strong defending!!
PSC UK

45
 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ Function - Defenders Distribution to Strikers
Key Aspects Game Transition, Decision Making, Passing Priorities
UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11 UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11
Functional or Skill Practice Functional or Skill Practice
Central Defenders Passing to Central Defenders Passing to
Strikers Strikers
Session Development No 1
Organisation
Cross Over with Pass into space
Os 2-2-2 (Coaches Team) behind last defender

Xs GK -2-2-1 (Managed Team) Primary Players

O9 & O10 complete a cross over with
Start Point No1 O10 exploiting space behind X5
 Yellow GK passes to O4 Pass from O5 into space for O10
 O4 presses by X9
Secondary Players
 O4 passes back to GK who O7 & O8 move to staggered midfield
then releases O5 positions in support

Transition Fringe Players

 O5 now have the ball O4 and GK cover and balance
 Dispersal
Options
 GK moves to the edge of the box
and releases to O5 or O4 in space
 Work variations on passing to
strikers
Primary Coaching Point
Quick movement to receive the pass
form the GK and execute a quality
pass to the strikers run.
PSC UK PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11

Functional or Skill Practice
Central Defenders Passing to
Strikers
Session Development No 2
Drag and Drop

Primary Players
O9 & O10 complete a cross over with
O10 exploiting space behind X5
Pass from O5 into space for O10

Secondary Players
O7 & O8 move to staggered midfield
positions in support

Fringe Players
O4 and GK cover and balance

Options
GK moves to the edge of the box and
releases to O6 or O4 an space

Primary Coaching Point

Quick movement to receive the pass
form the GK and execute a quality
pass to the strikers run.

PSC UK

46
 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ Function - Central Midfield Players Passing Positively
Key Aspects Dispersal, Decision Making, Support Play & Passing Priorities
UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE
Functional Practice
Central Midfield Players

Designed to Coach the

Midfield players on their
roles and responsibilities
in passing and rotation

Set Up
 40 yds wide full length

Coaches team
 Os (yellows)
 8 players GK-3-2-2

Managed Team
 Xs (Reds)
 7 players GK 2-3-2

Key
Primary Ball Travel
Start Point No1 – GK Initiates Attack
 X9 Presses one of your 2 defenders, GK releases the other Primary Player Travel
 Objective – Positive passing through midfiled to score
Other movement

UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE

Functional Practice
Central Midfield Players

Practice No1
Support in front and behind
players

Primary Players
 O8 shows for the pass
from O5 Holds and
protects the ball.
 O8 sets O3 who releases
O10 in the channel
 O8 then spins to support
the run of O6
 O6 the drives to support
O10 centrally

Secondary Players
 Movement of Strikers

Fringe Players
 Support and balance
Primary Coaching Points behind the ball
1. Movement to create space and receive in midfield
2. Supporting runs ahead and behind the ball
3. Decisive passing

47
 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE

Functional Practice
Central Midfield Players

Practice No2
Rotation in Midfield

Primary Players
 O8 shows for the pass
from O5 Holds and
protects the ball.
 O8 sets O6 who dropped
to support behind the ball
 O8 then spins to support
the strikers
 O6 receives the pass and
then passes into the run
of O9 in the channel and
then rotates to the
holding role to support
the movement of O8

Secondary Players
 Movement of Strikers
Primary Coaching Points
1. Movement to create space and receive in midfield Fringe Players
2. Supporting runs ahead and behind the ball  Support and balance
3. Decisive passing behind the ball
4. Comfortable rotation of positions in midfield

UEFA ‘A’ LICENCE

Functional Practice
Central Midfield Players

Practice No3
Third Man Running

Primary Players
 O9 shows for the pass
from O4 splitting the 2
central defenders
 O9 sets O6 who dropped
to support behind the ball
 O8 then spins to run into
space between central
defenders
 O6 passes to O8 on the
move (3rd Runner)

Secondary Players
 Movement of Strikers

Fringe Players
 Support and balance
Primary Coaching Points behind the ball
1. Movement to create space and receive in midfield
2. Supporting runs ahead and behind the ball
3. Decisive timing and passing
4. Awareness of the space to exploit with a 3rd runner

48
 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ Function - 2 Central Defenders How to Defend
Correctly
Key Aspects Decision Making, Support Play & Communication
FUNCTION
FUNCTION
TWO CENTRAL DEFENDERS HOW TO
GK TWO CENTRAL DEFENDERS HOW TO
DEFEND EFFECTIVELY IN CENTRAL AREAS
GK DEFEND EFFECTIVELY IN CENTRAL
Set up AREAS
Defending Os GK- 2 – 2 – T =(5)
Attacking Xs T – 2 - 2 (=5)
Scenario No1
Ball over the top to Exploit Space
Organisation
X4 O1 O2 X3
 The target player (T) can be used for both  X1 executes pass over the top of
teams to recycle the ball and keep the game O1 as quickly as possible away
flowing, the defending team can score by from the GK into space.
passing to the target player. O3  All X’s push for attack
 Area coned off to work on central areas.
X2 Coach the Following
 Set up in middle third
Primary Players
 Coaching position where you can coach the 1. O1 & O2 squeeze until play
defensive unit X1 O4 changes hands
 Use offside for realism 2. On execution of the pass from X1,
then O1 & O2 drop and narrow
The Start Point No1
towards goal O1 attempts to head
 O3 try's to pass to O4 but X1 intercepts. clear, or tackle/pass out of defence
 X1 immediately try's to pass in behind 3. Timing/teamwork for offside runs
advancing defenders 4. Good communication between O1
 Or a variation on this start & O2 and the GK.
Path of the player Path of the player Secondary Players
1. O3 recover to support
Path of the ball Path of the ball
PSC UK 2. O4 pressure the pass PSC UK
3. Can the GK come for the ball?

FUNCTION FUNCTION
TWO CENTRAL DEFENDERS HOW TO GK TWO CENTRAL DEFENDERS HOW TO
DEFEND EFFECTIVELY IN CENTRAL DEFEND EFFECTIVELY IN CENTRAL
GK
AREAS AREAS

Scenario No2 O1 O2 Scenario/Picture No3

Ball into Strikers feet X3 Striker pulls wide off the shoulder
X4 O1 X4 X3  Same start point as scenario No1
 Same start point as scenario No1 but higher in the attacking 1/3
O2  X1 executes pass into feet of X3 as  X1 executes pass into feet of X2 as
possible O3 possible
X3  X2 passes to X4 who has dropped
 All X’s push for attack
O3 X2 of to receive and drag O1.
Coach the Following
X2 Primary Player
 O2 presses on the outside X1 O4 Coach the Following
shoulder to eliminate the run Primary Player
X1 O4 outside 1. O1 presses the ball outside.
 O1 adjusts cover and balance to 2. O2 adjusts cover and balance to
support O2 but tracks X4 support O1 but tracks X3
 Communication and timing vital. 3. Communication and timing vital.
Secondary Players Secondary Player
 O3 moves to a supporting position  O3 tracks X2
 O4 pressures the pass Fringe Player
Fringe Player 1. O4 pressures the pass
Path of the player  Can the GK help? Path of the player 2. Can the GK help?
Path of the ball Path of the ball
PSC UK PSC UK

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Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ 11v11 - Intelligent Runs off the Ball
Key Aspects Dispersal, Decision Making, Support Play & Timing of Runs
UEFA ‘A’ Licence
Information Handbook
11 v 11 Runs Off the Ball

Organisation
Os 4-4-2 (Coaches Team)
Xs 4-4-2 Defending

Start Point No1

Xs (reds) on the attack
Os (yellows) Narrow & Compact
X8 Pressed by O6 forcing wide
Ball passed to X11
Intercepted by O2

O2 now on the ball

Transition
Os now have the ball
Dispersal

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Information Handbook
11 v 11 Runs Off the Ball

Session Development No 1
2v1 Overlap Vs X3

Primary Players
O2 and O7 combine to overload
X3 (2v1) with an overlapping run
Secondary Players
 O10 offers support and pins X5
Options
1. 2v1 Overlap against X3
2. Bounce pass off O10 in
behind X3
Fringe Players
 O9 & O11 Move high on the
shoulders of the defenders
 O8 support from midfield
 O6 holding role
 Defenders move out & support
Primary Coaching Point
1. Timing of the overlapping run
to overload X3 and attack the
vacant space
2. End product

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Information Handbook
11 v 11 Runs Off the Ball

Session Development No2

End Product

Primary Players
O10 & O9 Combine to complete a
cross over to attack near and far
posts

Secondary Players
 O11 attacks the far post

Fringe Players
 O7 & O8 supporting runs from
deep
 O6 holding role
 Defenders move out & support

Primary Coaching Point

1. Fine detail of the cross and
timing of the movement to
attack the ball
2. End product
3. Supporting runs
4. Lock the box

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Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
UEFA ‘A’ Licence
Information Handbook
11 v 11 Runs Off the Ball

Session Development No3

Runs From Deep Positions

Start Point
 X6 in possession
 Misplaced pass to X9 run
 O8 intercepts

 Ball now with O8

Transition
 Dispersal
 Create and exploit

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Information Handbook
11 v 11 Runs Off the Ball

Session Development No3

Runs From Deep Positions
Primary Players
O11 Holds and drags X2
towards him, creating for O3
O3 runs from deep exploiting
the space behind X2

Secondary Players
 O9 & O10 movement to attack
the incoming cross
Fringe Players
 O7 supporting run wide
 O6 supporting run from deep
 O8 Holding role
 Defenders move out & support
Primary Coaching Point
1. The hold from O11
2. Timing of the run from O3
3. End product
4. Lock the box

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

Information Handbook
11 v 11 Runs Off the Ball
Session Development No 4
Early Runs From Wide Positions
Start –No3 – O8 Intercepts
Primary Players
 O11 pulls off the shoulder of
X2 ready to exploit him
 Movement of O9 & O10 to
open the channel ball option
 Quick and decisive pass from
O8 behind X2
 Quick movement from O11
Secondary Players
 O9 & O10 movement to attack
the incoming cross
Fringe Players
 O7 supporting run wide
 O6 supporting run from deep
 O8 Holding role
 Defenders move out & support
Primary Coaching Point
1. The pass from O8
2. Timing of the run from O11
3. End product
4. Lock the box

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Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ 11v11 -
Three Central Defenders Playing Out from the Back
Key Aspects Dispersal, Decision Making, Support Play & Passing Priorities
UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11
Three Central Defenders
Playing Out from the Back

Organisation
 Os 3-4-3 (Coaches Team)
with a holding midfield player
 Xs 4-4-2 (Managed Team)

Start Point No1

 Xs (reds) on the attack
 Os (yellows) Narrow &
Compact
 X7 Pressed by O3 to pass
 Over hits the pass towards X9
with the ball going through to
the keeper

 Yellow GK now on the ball

Transition
 Os now have the ball
 Dispersal

PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11

Three Central Defenders
Playing Out from the Back
Session Development No 1
Team Dispersal on Control
of the Ball
Primary Players
 O4 & O6 move to high and wide
positions ready to receive

Secondary Players
 O2 & O3 move to high wide
positions creating space
 O7 & O8 move to staggered
midfield positions

Fringe Players
 O10 & O11 Move high on the
shoulders of the defenders
 O9 in the pocket (Zone 14)

Options
GK moves to the edge of the box and
releases to O6 or O4 an space

Primary Coaching Point

 GK quick movement to end of box
to create platform for movement of
back three defenders
PSC UK

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Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11

Three Central Defenders
Playing Out from the Back
Session Development No 2
O6 on the Ball
Primary Players
 O10 moves to a position high on
the shoulder of the last defender
ready to receive from O6

Secondary Players
 O7 moves into midfield to offer
support and possibly switch play or
RWTB
 O2 Drops wide to affect X11

Fringe Players
 O4 & O5 move out of defence
ensuring cover and balance

Options
1. Pass forward
2. RWTB

Primary Coaching Points

 Decision making from O6
 Movement ahead of the ball to
create to receive the pass from O6

PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11

Three Central Defenders
Playing Out from the Back
Session Development No3
O5 on the ball working
Through Midfield
Primary Players
 O7 drops into a deep position to
receive from O5 who is being
pressed
 O8 & O9 move wide to create
space in midfield for O7 to RWTB

Secondary Players
O10 & O11 move to high positions on
the shoulder of the last defender

Fringe Players
 O2 & O3 high supporting positions
 O6 & O4 close the door cover and
balance
Options
1. Pass forward
2. RWTB until engaged then end
product

Primary Coaching Points

 Decision making from O7
 Movement ahead of the ball to
create to receive the pass from
PSCO6
UK

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 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11

Three Central Defenders
Playing Out from the Back
Session Development No4
Switch Play
Primary Players
 O6 is pressed by X10 so switches
play to O5
 O7 drops into a deep position to
receive from O5 who is being
pressed by X9
 O7 Passes to O4 for options
Options
 O4 Pass forward or RWTB until
engaged then end product

Secondary Players
 O8 & O9 move to wide midfield
position to open the door for O4
 O11 Shows in the pocket (Zone 14)

Fringe Players
 O2 & O3 high supporting positions
 O5 & O6 close the door cover and
balance

Primary Coaching Points

 Quick switch of play across the
back 3 defenders including
midfield players
PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11

Three Central Defenders
Playing Out from the Back
Areas to Consider
Collectives Practice Priorities
1. Dispersal of back 3 1. Team Dispersal
2. Dispersal of wingbacks 2. Unit dispersal and position
3. Holding Midfield players role (shape)
4. 2 Central Midfielders Rotation
3. GK Scan & decision
5. 2 Front runners
making
4. GK delivery and support
Factors to Consider 5. Receiving skills
1. Anticipation of GK first touch 6. Decision making of player
2. Player Dispersal Where to? in possession
3. Wide central players wide and high
7. Action of player in
4. Central player slightly left or right of centre
5. Work initially on Wide central players angle of runs
possession
6. Quality of passes 8. Movement, rotation of
7. Quality of first touch out of feet players
8. Decision of player on the ball is it on? 9. Guarantee 'security' as
9. If not work on first supporting defender Angle and team plays out
distance
10. Second defender Angle and distance
11. Touch is good security / cover and balance

PSC UK

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 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ 11v11 - The Shadow Striker
Key Aspects Movement to Receive, Decision Making, Passing Priorities & End Product
UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11
The Shadow Striker
Areas to Consider
Collectives
Ball with our GK
Practice Priorities
Ball with our midfield players 1. Team Dispersal
Ball with our wide players 2. Unit dispersal and position
Ball with our Centre Forward (shape)
3. GK Scan & decision
Key Factors making
Positioning of Shadow Striker 4. GK delivery and support
Goalkeeper Catch and Counter Fast and flat at the 5. Receiving skills
shadow striker
6. Decision making of player
Receiving Skills
Release Skills
in possession
Movement to interchange 7. Movement, rotation of
Link to others players
Dribble and Drive Pick up the pieces 8. Link play or combination
play in the final third
Associated Factors 9. End product
1. Midfield open the windows of opportunity, movement
2. away/towards to open windows
3. Shadow Striker Play
4. On receiving turn run with it or release

PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11

The Shadow Striker

Organisation
Os 4-4-2 (Coaches Team)
Xs 4-4-2 (Managed Team)

Start Point No1

Catch & Counter

• Xs (reds) on the attack

• Os (yellows) Narrow &
Compact
• X7 Pressed by O3 to pass
• Over hits the pass towards X9
with the ball going through to
the keeper

• Yellow GK now on the ball

Transition
 Os now have the ball
 Dispersal (create and exploit
space)

PSC UK

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Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11

The Shadow Striker
Session Development No1
Receive Hold & Link Play Wide
Primary Players
 GK moves to release point on the
edge of the penalty area
 O9 stays high but O10 drops into
the Pocket to receive hold & turn

Secondary Players
 O11 & O7 move to high positions
on the shoulder of the last
defenders

Fringe Players
 O6 & O8 high supporting positions
 Back 4 defenders move out and
support behind the ball

Options for O10

1. Pass forward to feet or space
2. RWTB until engaged then end
product

Primary Coaching Points

 Release from GK
 Movement of O10
 Receiving skills O10
 Movement of attackers to exploit
space with end product PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11

The Shadow Striker
Session Development No2
Central Option closed
Primary Players
 O2 creates space to receive
 O8 drops to open the window for
O10
 O9 stays high but O10 drops into
the Pocket to receive hold & turn

Secondary Players
O11 & O7 move to high positions on
the shoulder of the last defenders

Fringe Players
 O6 moves to advanced supporting
position to support strikers
 Back 4 defenders move out and
support behind the ball

Options for O10

1. Pass forward to feet or space
2. RWTB until engaged then end
product
Primary Coaching Points
 Creating space of O2
 Movement of O10
 Receiving skills O10
 Movement of attackers to exploit
space with end product PSC UK

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Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11

The Shadow Striker
Session Development No3
Combination Play
Primary Players
 O6 creates space in midfield to
receive from GK
 O9 stays high to receive from O6
 O10 drops into the Pocket to
receive and link play

Secondary Players
O11 & O7 move to high positions on
the shoulder of the last defenders

Fringe Players
 O8 high supporting position
 O6 holding position
 Back 4 defenders move out and
support behind the ball

Options for O10

1. Pass forward to feet or space
2. RWTB until engaged then end
product

Primary Coaching Points

 Movement of O6
 Receiving & holding skills O9
PSC UK

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 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ 11v11 - Defending Ready to Counter Attack
Key Aspects Defending Principles, Decision Making & Passing Priorities
UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11
Defending Ready to Counter
Areas to Consider Attack Quickly

Collectives
Players prepared to defend on the right side of
attackers on the front foot ready to intercept
Game Transition every player switches on ready to Practice Priorities
counter 1. Interception
2. Creating Space and
Key Factors movement
Marking ready to intercept 3. Movement of players in
Creating & Exploiting space early wit disguised advance of the ball
runs off the ball 4. Support play form midfield
Release Skills 5. Variations on areas of
Movement to interchange, angle of runs interception
Timing of Runs 6. Speed of Counter
Link to others 7. End Product
Speed of movement and decision making

Associated Factors
1. Passing precision of all players
2. Quick movement to draw players out of position

PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11

Defending Ready to Counter
Attack Quickly
Session Development No1
Exploit Space Early

Scenario
Xs will drop and narrow on game
transition so its imperative that Os
counter Quickly

Primary Players (O9 & O10)

 O10 Drops into the pocket as an
option (Zone 14)
 O9 Exploits the Space behind X5
 O10 Makes and runs blind side
 O2 Passes into space

Secondary Players
 O11 & O7 move to high positions
on the shoulder of the last
defenders and attack space in
wide areas

Fringe Players
 O8 high supporting position
 O6 Holding role
 Back 4 defenders move out and
support behind the ball
PSC UK

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Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11
Defending Ready to Counter
Attack Quickly
Session Development No2
Exploit Space Early by
Switching Play

Scenario

1. Xs on the attack

2. X6 passes to X10 who is

marked tight by O5
3. X10 passes round the corner
to X9
4. O4 intercepts on the edge of
the box and moves forward

Transition

X5 are high in the attacking

third with space in behind

PSC UK

UEFA ‘A’ Licence 11 v 11

Defending Ready to Counter
Attack Quickly
Session Development No3
Exploit Space Early by
Switching Play

Primary Players (O9 & O10)

 Both strikers show to take
defenders away to one side of the
pitch suggesting counter attack
right side
 O8 & O11 make decisive runs in
behind X2
 O7 plays reverse diagonal pass to
exploit space behind X2
Secondary Players
 O8 supports the attack from deep
position

Fringe Players
 Back 4 defenders move out and
support behind the ball

Coaching Points
 Disguised runs away from one side
of the pitch to open the other side
 Speed of movement and passing

PSC UK

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 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ 11v11 - Building Attacks from Wide Areas
Key Aspects Approach Play, Passing Priorities, Good Delivery with End Product
UEFA ‘A’ Licence
11 v 11
Attacks From Wide Areas

Intelligent Movement and

Combination Play in the
Pre Session Focus Middle and Attacking Third
Organisation
Layout
Right players in right positions
Free Play Designed to promote
Realistic Start Position decisive and deceptive
Good Coaching Position movement to create and
Mavericks, good finishers, fox in the box exploit space.

Player Running with the Ball

Pathway of the Ball

Player Running without the Ball

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

11 v 11
Attacks From Wide Areas

Organisation
Os 4-4-2 (Coaches Team)
Xs 4-4-2 Defending

Start Point No1

 Xs (reds) on the attack
 Os (yellows) Narrow &
Compact
 X8 Pressed by O6 forcing
wide
 Ball passed to X11
 Intercepted by O2

 O2 now on the ball

Transition
 Os now have the ball
 Dispersal of Os
 Switch on

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

11 v 11
Attacks From Wide Areas
Session Development No 1
2v1 Overlap Vs X3
Primary Players
 O2 and O7 combine to
overload X3 (2v1) with an
overlapping run
 O7 takes X3 on a run inside
creating space for O2
Secondary Players
 O10 offers support and pins
X5 to open the space
 O9 stays high on the shoulder
then completes a cross over
with O10
Fringe Players
 O8 support from midfield
 O6 holding role
 Defenders move out & support
Primary Coaching Point
1. Timing of the overlapping run
to overload X3 and attack the
vacant space
2. End product

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Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

11 v 11
Attacks From Wide Areas
Session Development No 2
Wide Player Shown Inside by X3
Situation
X3 shuts off the line from the
overlapping run
Primary Players
 O7 receives from O2 with O2
supporting him
 O7 drives inside into the
space between X3 and X5
 O10 pins X5 until O7 makes
the run towards him
Secondary Players
 O9 stays high on the shoulder
then completes a cross over
with O10
Fringe Players
 O8 support from midfield
 O6 holding role
 Defenders move out & support
Primary Coaching Point
1. The drive inside from O7
2. End product

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

11 v 11
Attacks From Wide Areas
Session Development No 3
Combination Play (SIDS)
Situation
O7 on the ball wide
Primary Players
 O7 passes to X10 who is
pinning X5
 O10 disguises a step over
and lets the ball run to O9 this
is called a ‘SID’
 O10 then spins off behind X5
 O9 plays a 1st time ball
behind X5 for the run of X10
 O9 then spins in behind X4
Secondary Players
 O11 attack far post
 O8 supporting run
Fringe Players
 O6 holding role
 Defenders move out & support
Primary Coaching Point
1. The disguised step over
2. End product

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Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

11 v 11
Attacks From Wide Areas

Session Development No4

Switch Play to Move Defence
Situation
O7 on the ball wide cant go
forward
Primary Players
 O7 passes to X6 who has
dropped off his marker 8
 O11 creates space wide
ready to receive the pass and
attack X2
Secondary Players
 O10 drives to front post area
between defenders and
across X5 with strong run
 O9 re shapes to far post run
 O8 late supporting run
Fringe Players
 O6 holding role
 Defenders move out & support
Primary Coaching Point
1. The quick switch of play
2. End product

UEFA ‘A’ Licence

11 v 11
Attacks From Wide Areas

Session Development No5

Runs From Deep Positions
Primary Players
O11 Holds and drags X2
towards him, creating for O3
O3 runs from deep exploiting
the space behind X2

Secondary Players
 O9 & O10 movement to attack
the incoming cross
Fringe Players
 O7 supporting run wide
 O6 supporting run from deep
 O8 Holding role
 Defenders move out & support
Primary Coaching Point
1. The hold from O11
2. Timing of the run from O3
3. End product
4. Lock the box

62
 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
Session Title UEFA ‘A’ Skills Practices – Defending Set Plays
Key Aspects Organisation, Roles and Responsibilities

Ensure players understand their position, role and Collectives

responsibilities  PTA Responsibilities
 Where Position of players, body shape in relation where the  Overload back post
ball is  Near Post Flick
 How To attack and dominate key areas of responsibility  Counter Attack
 Why To dominate the key areas in the prime target area
 Role Thorough understanding of their responsibilities

Considerations
 Type of Delivery Position of the ball
 In swinger Angle to the goal
 Outswinger Distance
 Straight
 Attack the ball & Secondary Defenders
 Clearance and Push
 Counter Attack Security
 (Cover and Balance)
 Adjustment of feet and body easier

Advantages
 Compactness of key and critical areas
 Organisation and space no obvious space AND Reduces reactive movement
 Allows players to react to the ball and not movement WITH composure is more likely
 Defenders more time to see the ball when wide of centre and possible re adjustment on
secondary positions

Possibilities for your team

 Counter attack from Gk possession
 Apply all of the considerations and Mental Qualities to achieve the advantages of Zonal
Defensive Play

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 Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

Defend the
Stop the direct shot wide run or
in the pocket wide right
towards the post post area

3 x Man 4 Man or
Space markers

Charger

Collectives
 Importance of the solid wall that does not break
 Roles off the ball
 Do not ball watch and attack second balls

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

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UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011

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Professional Sports Coaching UK
UEFA „A‟ Coaching Session Plans & Coaches Information Handbook January 2011
REMEMBER

Primary

Secondary

Fringe

Fine Detail

Sound Tactical Decisions

Good Coaching Process

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